How to Grow Garlic in New Jersey: A Step-by-Step Guide to Record Yields

Are you ready to add a pungent punch to your New Jersey garden and kitchen? Growing garlic is a rewarding experience, and with the right knowledge, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown bulbs all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know about how to grow garlic in New Jersey.

Understanding Garlic and New Jersey’s Climate

Garlic, a member of the Allium family, thrives in cool, temperate climates. Fortunately, New Jersey’s climate is ideal for growing garlic, with its distinct seasons and ample rainfall. However, it’s essential to understand the specific needs of garlic to ensure a successful harvest.

Choosing the Right Garlic Variety

The first step to a successful garlic garden is selecting the right variety. Garlic varieties are broadly categorized into two groups: hardneck and softneck.

• Hardneck garlic: Characterized by a central stalk called a scape, hardneck varieties are known for their strong flavor and large cloves. They are best suited for cooler climates and typically produce a single large bulb. Popular hardneck varieties in New Jersey include:
• Music: A classic hardneck variety with large, flavorful cloves.
• German Red: Known for its vibrant red skin and potent flavor.
• Rocambole: A popular choice for its distinctive purple stripes and robust flavor.

• Softneck garlic: Lacking a scape, softneck varieties are known for their long storage life and smaller cloves. They are better adapted to warmer climates and tend to produce multiple smaller bulbs. Popular softneck varieties in New Jersey include:
• Early Italian: A reliable softneck variety with a mild flavor.
• Inchelium Red: A popular choice for its long storage life and vibrant red skin.
• Silverskin: A classic softneck variety with a mild flavor and white skin.

Planting Time and Preparation

Garlic is a fall-planted crop in New Jersey. The ideal planting time is between late September and early November, allowing the bulbs to establish roots before winter. However, the exact timing might vary based on your specific location and weather conditions.

Here’s how to prepare your garden for garlic planting:

• Choose a sunny spot: Garlic requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Amend the soil: Garlic prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend your soil with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility.
• Work the soil: Till or dig the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches to loosen it and create a suitable planting bed.

Planting Garlic Cloves

Once your garden bed is prepared, you can start planting your garlic cloves:

• Separate cloves: Choose healthy, plump cloves from a garlic bulb. Remove any damaged or shriveled cloves.
• Plant cloves pointy side up: Plant each clove 2-3 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
• Cover with soil: Gently cover the cloves with soil and water them well.

Caring for Your Garlic Plants

Once planted, your garlic plants need minimal care to thrive. Here’s a simple guide to keep them healthy:

• Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the early growth stages. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around your garlic plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize: While garlic is not a heavy feeder, you can apply a balanced fertilizer to your garden bed in early spring to provide additional nutrients.
• Control pests and diseases: Monitor your garlic plants for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests include garlic mites and aphids. If you notice any problems, treat them promptly with appropriate methods.

Harvesting Your Garlic Harvest

Garlic is typically ready for harvest in late June or early July, depending on the variety and planting time. You’ll know your garlic is ready when the leaves start to turn yellow and brown.

Here’s how to harvest your garlic:

• Dig up the bulbs: Carefully dig up the bulbs using a garden fork or trowel.
• Shake off excess soil: Gently shake off excess soil from the bulbs.
• Dry the bulbs: Spread the bulbs in a well-ventilated, shaded area to dry for at least two weeks. This will help them cure and improve their storage life.

Storing Your Garlic

Once your garlic bulbs are fully cured, you can store them for months. Here are some tips for storing garlic:

• Choose a cool, dry place: Store your garlic bulbs in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
• Braiding garlic: You can braid your garlic bulbs for a decorative and practical storage method.
• Storing in a mesh bag: Storing your garlic in a breathable mesh bag can help prevent moisture buildup and prolong its shelf life.

Beyond the Harvest: Using Your Garlic

Fresh, homegrown garlic adds a delicious flavor to a wide range of dishes. From savory soups and stews to flavorful sauces and marinades, garlic is a versatile ingredient in any kitchen.

A Final Word on Growing Garlic in New Jersey

Growing garlic in New Jersey can be a rewarding experience, providing you with fresh, flavorful bulbs throughout the year. By following these simple tips and techniques, you can enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own garlic and adding a unique touch to your culinary creations.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the best way to prevent garlic mites?

A: Garlic mites are a common pest that can damage garlic plants. To prevent them, practice good garden hygiene, remove any infected plants, and rotate your garlic crops annually. You can also use diatomaceous earth as a natural control method.

Q: Can I grow garlic in containers?

A: Yes, you can grow garlic in containers. Choose a large container with drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Plant your garlic cloves as you would in a garden bed.

Q: When should I harvest garlic scapes?

A: If you’re growing hardneck garlic, you can harvest the scapes when they are about 6-8 inches long and have a tight curl at the top. Harvesting scapes will encourage larger bulb development.

Q: How long can I store garlic?

A: Properly cured garlic can be stored for several months, even up to a year. Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid storing it in direct sunlight.

Q: What are some other ways to use garlic besides cooking?

A: Garlic has a variety of uses beyond cooking. It can be used to repel insects, as a natural antifungal agent, and even as a topical treatment for skin conditions.